2026 BMW XM Label First Look: It’s Officially the One and Only XM

When BMW introduced the 2024 XM Label Red, it marked the start of what was meant to be an annual series of special edition “Labels” for the XM plug-in hybrid sport SUV. Shortly before its launch, BMW dropped the “Red” from the name but confirmed that these Label editions would continue to appear yearly alongside standard XM models. Now, halfway through 2025, the XM Label is back—but no longer as a limited special edition. According to BMW, it has become the only trim available for the 2026 BMW XM Label.

Packing a combined 738 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque from its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine paired with an electric motor, the 2026 XM Label continues to hold the title as BMW M’s most powerful production model available. During our test of the 2024 version—with identical power output—it sprinted to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, beating BMW’s official claim by two-tenths of a second.

For 2026, BMW is keeping the XM’s performance specs unchanged, so the 2026 XM Label will deliver the same exhilarating power. The high-performance plug-in hybrid SUV is typically capped at 155 mph, but opting for the M Driver’s Package raises the top speed to 175 mph. BMW has also revised the throttle mapping, a welcome update that may resolve previous criticisms about the original XM’s throttle feeling jumpy and making smooth acceleration difficult.

Another issue BMW is addressing for 2026 is charging speed. While the 2024 XM Label’s plug-in capability was impressive, its relatively slow 7.4-kW AC charging lagged behind the SUV’s high-performance potential. The 2026 XM Label improves on this by boosting the AC charge rate to a more competitive 11 kW. The battery’s net capacity remains at 19.2 kWh, meaning Level 2 charging will now refill the battery more quickly. It’s somewhat disappointing that BMW still doesn’t offer DC fast charging, which would provide even faster top-ups—especially useful for maintaining peak performance on the track or during longer trips. The battery pack remains rated at 317 volts, and with no change in voltage or capacity, the 2026 XM should deliver a similar all-electric range of about 31 miles, achievable at speeds up to 87 mph.

The 2026 XM Label also boasts impressive braking performance, featuring six-piston fixed front calipers gripping M Compound brake pads and rotors, while the rear brakes use single-piston floating calipers paired with M Compound components. The suspension setup includes BMW’s Adaptive M dampers and coil springs, supported by a double-wishbone front suspension and a five-link rear system for sharp handling and ride comfort.

The suspension is tasked with managing a set of 23-inch 1096 M alloy wheels, sized 23×10 inches up front and 23×11 inches at the rear, wrapped in high-performance 275/35R23 and 315/30R23 tires, respectively. These wheels are now available with a new Jet Black finish option for those who want a more striking look. This finish complements new exterior colors like Frozen Tanzanite Blue metallic, while a new “welcome light” animation adds a distinctive touch to the XM Label’s presence, especially in the dark.

Inside, buyers can choose from three new color themes offered through the BMW Individual program: Night Blue leather with Vintage Coffee accents, Black leather paired with Vintage Coffee, and Silverstone leather accented by Black. The rear seat comfort cushions will coordinate with the selected leather options, including these new BMW Individual choices. Aside from these updates, the interior features remain consistent with the 2024 XM Label.

Pricing details for the 2026 BMW XM Label won’t be released until closer to production, which is scheduled to begin in August at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina. If you’re attending the 24 Hours of Le Mans this weekend, you’ll get a chance to see the 2026 XM Label unveiled live, alongside the thrilling BMW M Hybrid V-8 racecar competing in the iconic endurance event in France.